Every Worker Deserves A Living Wage

What is a Living Wage?

A living wage provides the minimal annual income needed to meet an individual’s or family’s basic needs, including the payment of all applicable federal, state and local taxes, without relying on either public or private assistance. Estimates of the annual income required for a “living wage” assume that the employer provides health care coverage – which is not true for many ESP members.

A living wage can be compared to a floor, not a ceiling! A living wage does not include any amount for savings (for retirement, education or any other purpose) or any provision for insurance (such as renter’s insurance) or for luxury items, such as eating a meal outside of the home.